Paternkofel Mountain (De Luca-Innerkofler Via Ferrata)

Tour Hauptmerkmale

Duration

3:45 h

Distance

8.9km

Altitude

380 m

Altitude

380 m

Max. height

2610 m

A varied via ferrata that uses tunnels built in the First World War for the climb (headtorch!). Be aware that there will still be ice in the tunnels early in the season. From the Gamsscharte col there is a short steep climb that is entirely secured with steel ropes. Sure-footedness on the descent to the Paternsattel is essential, as some extremely exposed sections have to be tackled unsecured.

Directions

Characteristics: Wonderful summit tour on the tracks of the First World War. An ideal day tour in a spectacular setting. Mountain experience and sure-footedness are essential, especially for the descent. Climbers may encounter ice in the tunnels early in the season, which can make the via ferrata impassable. Access: Go along the wide gravel path to the Paternsattel, then continue to the Drei-Zinnen-Hütte (2405m), open from the start of June until the end of September. Then go from the hut to the entrance to the tunnel entrance at "Galleria Paterna" (takes a few minutes). Technical details: Interesting ascent on an old wartime route. The lower section runs through a steep, dark tunnel (the "Galleria Paterna" – headtorch required). The rest of the climb is mostly secured with steel ropes, although some exposed sections, particularly near the summit, have to be climbed unsecured. Via ferrata in detail: 70% steel rope, 10% exposed, 20% tunnel. Total climb: 525m altitude gain, 2:30-3:00 hours. Ascent: 235m altitude gain, 1:15-1:30 hours. Descent: From the summit, descend the way you climbed until you reach the Gamsscharte. Then descend through the south-east gully (partly marked with faded red triangles) and along the old wartime route back to the Paternsattel. The path is not difficult, but is exposed and partly unsecured, so sure-footedness is essential. 1:00-1:15 hours to the Paternsattel. Direction: North and east

Starting point

Rifugio Auronzo, 2320 m, open from the start of June until the end of September